My fig tree seems to have developed some strange sort of knot over the winter. You can see a picture at http://needlesandchard.blogspot.com/2008/02/crazy-thing.html

1. Does anyone know what this is?

2. I was told (by someone else with figs, not the nursery) that I don't have to spray figs. Is this true? Is there something I should be doing to prevent this, if this is some sort of infection or infestation?

Thanks

Amelia